Gary Johnson’s squad has been strengthened by the addition of three new players, ahead of Saturday’s clash with Notts County at Meadow Lane.
Joining United on loan are former Plainmoor favourite Mark Ellis from Barrow, and young Charlton Athletic defender Lucas Ness, whilst ex-Barnsley forward Cameron Thompson joins The Gulls on non-contract terms.
The return of Ellis to Torquay comes just over a decade after the Kingsbridge-born centre-half joined Crewe Alexandra, before going on to further his enviable career with the likes of Shrewsbury, Carlisle, Tranmere, as well as another loan stint with Saturday’s opponents, Notts County.
With Mark having amassed over 400 league appearances as a professional, the Gaffer was clearly delighted to add the 35 year-old to his defensive roster ahead of the trip to the league leaders.
“We’ve worked hard to get some more numbers into our squad,” began Johnson.
“Mark became available, and he agreed to join us as soon as he knew we were interested. I know he’s well-respected at Torquay, and he’s looking forward to playing back at Plainmoor, and his experience in the backline will be very beneficial to us.”
Whilst Ellis will be familiar to many of the Yellow Army, Ness is a completely fresh face, however the 20 year-old Charlton starlet has already begun making a name for himself at The Valley, making six outings for The Addicks in cup competitions, after joining the League One club from Southern League side Metropolitan Police FC.
“Lucas is a centre-half, he’s on loan from Charlton. He’s 20 and been playing in the Papa Johns Trophy and Carabao Cup,” confirmed the Gaffer.
“Charlton felt that he was ready to come out to our level. He had a good spell at Hampton & Richmond last year, we’re pleased to bring him in, and we welcome him to our club.”
The Gulls’ boss also revealed that 22 year-old forward Thompson, who made two appearances for Championship side Barnsley last season, has also signed non-contract terms, after a recent spell training with the Club:
“Cameron’s been training with us, and we’re waiting to decide regarding a contract.
“He’s a tidy winger or a striker, but as we speak, he’s a non-contract player, while we’re giving him an extended trail period.”
With the team in the middle of a hectic spell of fixtures, Johnson highted the importance of creating competition for places, as The Gulls continue striving towards their league and cup ambitions.
“We want more competition, so we can rest people when we need to. We’re playing so many games, it’s almost impossible for people to play in every game.
“So, I need a squad that cope with the number of games we’re playing, and when a decent player becomes available, we’re enquiring.”